Test Drive Checklist
Maximize your test drive to uncover potential problems. Learn what to listen for, which handling issues matter, and the right questions to ask sellers before committing to purchase.
Before You Start
Check insurance coverage
Ensure you're insured to drive. Some policies cover test drives, others don't. Dealer insurance may have excess of £1,000+. Verify coverage before turning key. Accidents happen even on short test drives.
Bring your driving license
Dealers require photo ID to test drive. Private sellers may want to see license too. Bring both parts if old-style license. No license means no test drive, wasted journey.
Plan a varied route
20-30 minute drive minimum. Include different road types: residential streets, A-roads, motorway if possible. Hills test engine power. Bumpy roads reveal suspension issues. Varied conditions expose problems.
Cold start if possible
Arrange to be first viewer of the day. Cold engine reveals starting problems and unusual smoke. Sellers warm engine before viewings to hide issues. Early morning appointments best for honest assessment.
Starting the Engine
Listen to startup
Should start immediately without hesitation. No grinding or rattling noises. Diesel engines may clatter briefly when cold (normal). Excessive cranking or unusual sounds suggest problems. Blue or white smoke concerning.
Check dashboard warnings
All warning lights should illuminate then extinguish. ABS, airbag, engine management, and oil lights must go out. Any light staying on indicates fault. Could be minor sensor or major problem. Investigate before buying.
Let engine idle
Run for 2-3 minutes before driving. Listen for knocking, ticking, or irregular rhythm. Revs should settle to steady idle. Temperature gauge shouldn't rise excessively. Smell for burning oil or coolant.
While Driving
Steering feel and response
Should be smooth with no pulling to either side. Light but not vague. Heavy steering suggests power steering fault. Vibration through wheel at speed indicates wheel balance or alignment issues. Excessive play dangerous.
Acceleration and power delivery
Engine should pull smoothly without hesitation. Test full throttle in safe area. Gutless performance suggests turbo or engine problems. Jerking or kangarooing indicates fueling issues. Lack of power versus expectations concerning.
Gearbox operation
Manual: Smooth changes, clutch bites halfway up pedal travel. No crunching into gears. Heavy clutch may need replacement soon. Automatic: Shifts barely noticeable. No jerking, slipping, or delay. Transmission should be seamless.
Brake performance
Test at different speeds. Should stop straight and progressively. No pulling to side, juddering, or grinding noises. Spongy pedal indicates air in system. Squealing suggests worn pads. Vibration means warped discs.
Suspension and ride quality
Drive over speed bumps and rough roads. Excessive bouncing suggests worn shocks. Clunking from underneath indicates bushings or joints. Bottoming out easily means suspension problems. Should feel controlled and comfortable.
Unusual noises
Turn radio off completely. Listen for knocks, rattles, whines, or grinding. Note when they occur: acceleration, braking, turning. Front noises usually suspension or CV joints. Rear noises could be exhaust or bushings.
Specific Tests to Perform
Full lock turning
Turn steering wheel fully left and right at slow speed. Listen for clicking or grinding from CV joints. Common wear point on front-wheel drive cars. Expensive repair (£200-400 per side).
Emergency stop test
Find safe, empty area. Brake hard from 40mph. Car should stop straight without pulling. ABS should pulse pedal if activated. Judges brake condition and alignment. Warning: only do where completely safe.
Motorway speed run
Test cruising at 60-70mph. Engine should be quiet and smooth. No vibrations through steering or seats. Wind noise acceptable. Mechanical noises at speed indicate serious issues. Also tests overtaking power.
Hill starts
Find a hill to test clutch bite point and handbrake. Car should hold on handbrake, pull away smoothly. Slipping clutch won't hold or pulls away slowly with high revs. Replacement costs £400-1,000.
Testing Electronics and Features
Air conditioning
Turn on and wait for cold air. Should cool noticeably within 2-3 minutes. Warm air only suggests expensive repair (£400-800). Test heater too. Both systems should work properly.
All electrical systems
Test every switch and button. Windows, mirrors, seats, sunroof, heated seats, radio, USB ports, parking sensors, cameras. Electrical faults common on older cars. Repairs expensive and frustrating.
Infotainment system
Check screen responsiveness. Bluetooth connectivity. Navigation if fitted. Audio quality from all speakers. Software glitches common. Some systems expensive to repair or replace. Must work properly for daily use.
After the Drive
Check for fluid leaks
Look underneath where car was parked. Oil leaks appear dark. Coolant bright green or pink. Any puddles warrant investigation. Small leaks become expensive problems. Fresh fluids everywhere suspicious (hiding leaks).
Inspect exhaust smoke
Have someone rev engine while you watch exhaust. Blue smoke means burning oil (worn engine). White smoke suggests head gasket issues. Black smoke indicates fueling problems. Light grey normal for diesels.
Review your notes
Write down any concerns immediately. Easy to forget details after viewing multiple cars. Note specific noises, faults, or behaviors. Refer to notes when making decision. Don't rely on memory alone.
Red Flags During Test Drive
- Seller refuses test drive or only allows very short route
- Engine already warm when you arrive (hiding cold start issues)
- Loud radio to mask mechanical noises
- Warning lights taped over or bulbs removed
- Seller insists on driving instead of you
- Rushing you to make quick decision after drive
- Major mechanical noises or handling problems
- Multiple systems not working properly
Questions to Ask
Ownership and history
"How long have you owned it? Why are you selling? What's the service history? Any accidents or damage? When was timing belt last done? Any outstanding finance?"
Recent work and issues
"What work has been done recently? Any current faults or warning lights? What needs doing soon? Are there any known issues? Has MOT highlighted any advisories?"
Usage and condition
"How has it been driven? Mostly motorway or city? Regular short trips or long journeys? Original parts or replacements? Both keys available? Full service history?"
Prepare for Your Test Drive
Review the vehicle's MOT history before your test drive to know what advisories or issues to specifically check.
Check MOT History